Singapore mobile operator StarHub has successfully completed the first Voice over LTE (VoLTE) call based on IR.92 (which defines call set-up processes and handovers between LTE and 2G/3G networks) in a live network in Southeast Asia.

To enable VoLTE, StarHub deployed NSN’s Open TAS (telecommunications application server) for voice, home subscriber server (HSS) and IP multi-media subsystem (IMS). VoLTE services are part of an existing LTE agreement that was signed between NSN and StarHub in 2012.

NSN had supplied its Single RAN (single radio access network) platform based on its compact and energy-efficient Flexi Multiradio 10 base stations to enable StarHub to run GSM and LTE concurrently on the 1800MHz band.

NSN’s Global Services provide planning and optimisation services, from the architecture and design stage to multi-vendor integration and core network migration, and has helped put the operator in a position to launch VoLTE commercially in its network. It also provides implementation and care services.

“Together with our key technology partner NSN, we are committed to continually enabling innovative future-ready technologies and services to benefit StarHub’s customers,” said Chan Kin Hung, head of personal solutions at StarHub.

John Lancaster-Lennox, head of South Asia at NSN, said: “By enabling the first 3GPP standard VoLTE call in Southeast Asia, NSN has helped StarHub reach an important milestone in the region’s telecommunications industry, an achievement that lays the foundation for the delivery of HD voice services over LTE to users in Singapore.

“This is yet another strong proof-point that NSN remains committed to supporting StarHub in its endeavors to build a cutting-edge network infrastructure in the country.”